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Explora Science Center and Children's Museum of Albuquerque tourist attraction in Old Town, NM
Photo: Deserted Dave
View of Explora Science Center and Children's Museum of Albuquerque in Old Town, NM
Photo: Cam Citizen
View of Explora Science Center and Children's Museum of Albuquerque in Old Town, NM
Photo: Eduardo

Explora Science Center and Children's Museum of Albuquerque

4.8(4,460 reviews)$$Museum
🕑 3-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers love the high-chair exhibit and water play areas, while elementary-aged kids gravitate toward the physics experiments, arts studio, and technology stations. Even teens find the more complex exhibits engaging.

About

Explora Science Center is an interactive wonderland where 250+ hands-on exhibits turn learning into pure fun. Kids can experiment with everything from bubble science and water flow to building structures and exploring light and sound, making it the perfect rainy-day escape or educational adventure in Albuquerque.

Highlights

  • High Wire Bike where kids can pedal along an elevated cable track
  • Interactive water tables and fluid dynamics exhibits
  • Building and construction zones with pipes, tubes, and foam blocks
  • Moving Air exhibit with scarves, parachutes, and pneumatic tubes
  • Outdoor Science Park with hands-on experiments in natural light

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive right at 10:00 AM opening for the smallest crowds, especially on weekends when the museum can get busy by midday
  2. 2.Bring a complete change of clothes for younger kids,the water exhibits are too irresistible and kids will get wet
  3. 3.Don't miss the outdoor Science Park with pneumatic tubes and marble runs, accessible through the museum and worth at least 30 minutes of play time
  4. 4.Plan to spend time in the arts studio where kids can create take-home projects using recycled materials and craft supplies
  5. 5.Consider combining your visit with a stroll through adjacent Old Town Albuquerque for a full day of family fun

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) are ideal for avoiding school groups and weekend crowds. Visit during the cooler months (October-April) when you can comfortably enjoy both indoor exhibits and the outdoor Science Park without extreme heat.

What to Know

Admission is approximately $10-12 per person with discounts for members and groups. Free parking is available in the museum lot. Light snacks and drinks are available on-site, though you may want to plan for a meal in nearby Old Town before or after your visit.

Seasonal Notes

The museum is open year-round with consistent hours. The outdoor Science Park is most enjoyable in spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. Check their website for special STEAM programs, summer camps, and holiday-themed events throughout the year.

Nearby Eats

Head to Old Town just a short walk away for kid-friendly options like Church Street Café (excellent New Mexican food with a kids menu) or Sawmill Market, a food hall with multiple vendors offering everything from pizza to tacos where picky eaters can find something they like.

More Activities Near Old Town

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Albuquerque Museum

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The Albuquerque Museum offers an exceptional blend of art, history, and hands-on experiences that keep kids genuinely engaged. With interactive exhibits designed specifically for young learners, a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden perfect for running around, and family-focused programming, this museum proves that cultural experiences can be both educational and entertaining for children.

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Rattlesnake Museum & Gift Shop

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This compact but captivating museum in Albuquerque's Old Town houses the world's largest collection of live rattlesnakes, plus other fascinating reptiles. Kids get an up-close look at over 30 species of rattlers in safe, well-designed habitats while learning about these misunderstood creatures through engaging educational displays that make science come alive.

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Bike In Coffee

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Bike In Coffee is a delightful urban farm and garden space tucked into Old Town Albuquerque where kids can get their hands dirty learning about sustainable agriculture. This budget-friendly gem combines a cozy café atmosphere with hands-on educational programs that teach children where their food comes from, making it perfect for families who want both a learning experience and a relaxing coffee break.

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Old Town Plaza

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Old Town Plaza is a charming historic gathering space perfect for families looking to combine culture, play, and people-watching. With its shaded gazebo, beautifully landscaped grounds, and safe open areas for kids to roam, this central plaza offers a relaxed atmosphere where children can enjoy street performers and explore while parents soak in the Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant local culture.